The Importance of Getting some Fresh Air

 

The Importance of getting some fresh air 😁

I’m sure you will all agree that you generally feel happier when the sun is shining and you get to spend more time outside. There are a range of benefits to getting fresh air; it can help you destress and improve your physical and mental wellbeing.  

Regardless of the time of year, we should always take more advantage of the outdoors. Here are 6 reasons why you should spend time outdoors in the fresh air to improve your wellbeing:

1) Fresh air is good for your digestive system

Fresh air increases the flow of oxygen helping you digest food more effectively so this will particularly help if you are trying to lose weight.

2) Fresh air helps improve blood pressure and heart rate

Avoid polluted environments particularly if you need to improve your blood pressure. Stay away from the busy traffic as the body will need to work harder to get the amount of oxygen it needs over polluted car fumes. 

3) Fresh air makes you happier

The more fresh air you get, the more oxygen you will breathe which will increase the amount of serotonin (the happy hormone) you inhale, consequently making you happier.

4) Fresh air strengthens your immune system

By increasing the amount of fresh air we get, will increase the amount of oxygen which helps our white blood cells function properly by fighting and killing bacteria and germs. 

5) Fresh air cleans your lungs

You lungs dilate more from having an increase of oxygen so fresh air improves the cleansing of your lungs. You release airborne toxins from your body when exhaling through your lungs.

6) Fresh air gives you more energy and a sharper mind

You may have noticed after spending time outside, you come back indoors feeling brighter and perhaps ready to get back to work. More oxygen results in greater brain functioning, improving your concentration skills and providing you with more energy.

In addition, venturing outside will also help you produce vitamin D from the sun (when it does come out), which is essential for many bodily functions including supporting our immune system, strengthening our bones, teeth and much more. 

You could even include outdoor workouts to add that extra bit of zing to your routine. This is more cost effective than paying a monthly gym membership and you'll receive the benefits of getting fresh air. Outdoor exercise is something I enjoy doing regularly! 

So enjoy time outdoors and get the maximum health benefits from the fresh air. This may be difficult when you feel bogged down with work, but it’s important to take a break still, even just a short walk outside no matter where you are. This will help you feel more refreshed and allow you to work better with a sharper mind. Without a break, your activities could take a lot longer to complete and the quality of your work may be affected.

The bottom line is, no matter what it is you do or for how long, just make an effort to get outside everyday. Take some deep breaths and take notes of how good it makes you feel.

Because we care...

#teambousehouse

#ocrealestate

7 tips to manage stress and mental health during the Holidays

 

How to Manage Stress & Mental Health During the Holidays

The holiday season can be a stressful and overwhelming time of year.

 

For many people, the holidays can feel like an unwanted commitment filled with tension instead of joy and happiness.   

 

Maybe it’s worrying about finding the perfect gift for everyone, how you’re going to afford all of the presents, dealing with family members you don’t get along with or managing the changes in routine while trying to plan everything.

 

All of these demands may quickly lead to a decline in one’s mental health and may trigger harmful behaviors such as drug use, drinking alcohol to cope with stress, and sometimes an increase in mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. 

 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the holidays, here are some tips to help manage your mental health and holiday stress levels. 

 

 

#1 Plan Ahead

 

Trying to rush everything in at the last minute is a recipe for disaster. 

 

Instead, have a plan in place for when you are going to accomplish certain tasks such as shopping, visiting friends, and baking. Take it a step further and plan out your shopping list and the food you are planning to serve. 

 

Not only will planning give you peace of mind, but it is also a good exercise to keep your mind organized and calm. 

 

By planning ahead and taking care of one task at a time, you will feel less holiday stress and eliminate the risk of an overwhelming schedule.

 

#2 Be Realistic

 

The holidays don’t have to be just exactly perfect. Don’t stress yourself out by trying to create the perfect holiday season. Instead, be realistic and open-minded.

 

Traditions and rituals may change, families can grow or move farther away, and there might not be enough time to set up all the decorations, make it to every party, or prepare all the food.

 

Keep it simple and reasonable. The holidays are going to be perfect just as they are, and more importantly, filled with joy.

 

#3 Stay Active

 

Exercise is a great way to deal with holiday stress, anxiety, and depression.

 

You don’t have to join a gym or set aside 1-2 hours every day for a workout. Simply taking a walk, performing stretches, or doing a quick 20 minute home workout routine can help improve your mood and energy.

 

 

#4 Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

 

Saying no to a friend or family member is hard, but is sometimes necessary for the sake of your mental health.

 

It may be the holidays and you want to please everyone, but you also need to think about your mental health and holiday stress levels. If you feel like there is way too much on your plate and you need to make room in your schedule, then let your friends or family members know.

 

Be honest and tell your loved ones if you are stressed during the busy holiday season. This can even be an opportunity to take a moment to connect with them. They will probably understand your experience and may even offer to help out.

 

#5 Set Aside Differences

 

The holidays are a time to come together as a family and share in joy, not a time to argue or express disappointment in one other.

 

Set aside any differences in lifestyle, opinions, or behaviors and accept everyone for who they are. There is a time and place to discuss grievances, but the holidays are not the time. Enjoy each other’s company and talk about topics that bring happiness.

 

And remember, if someone in your family starts acting out, try to be understanding and compassionate. They may also be dealing with stress and mental health issues that come with the holidays and they will appreciate your support when experiencing a stressful moment.

 

#6 Acknowledge Your Feelings

 

Just because it’s the holidays, doesn’t mean you have to be happy all the time. 

 

For example, if you can’t be with a loved one or someone you know has recently passed away, it’s okay to express and acknowledge your feelings. 

 

Trying to force yourself to be happy during the holidays will only make your mental health and stress levels worse.

 

Don’t be ashamed of your feelings, it’s completely normal to feel sad and cry because a loved one can’t be with you. It is also good for your mental health and you will feel much better after expressing yourself.

 

#7 Don’t Worry About the Small Stuff

 

The items and tasks on your agenda can be overwhelming and quickly add up.

 

Don’t let small things like forgetting to send a holiday card stress you out. The bigger picture of the holidays is more important, like spending time with friends and family. 

 

Also, don’t feel obligated to complete everything on your list. If you forget something small or don’t have time, don’t sweat it. Life will go on, what’s important is that you take care of your mental health during the holidays and enjoy yourself.

Because we care...

#teambousehouse

#ocrealestate